Map submitted as part of Flamingo Land's plans. Red line shoes the site boundaries and Blue line shows water features. (Image: https://eplanning.lochlomond-trossachs.org/OnlinePlanning/files/61C5C2844C135B945CD5B30E1FB24141/pdf)

Red squirrels and otters could be injured or killed in the development of a £30million resort on the banks of Loch Lomond.

Ancient woodland is also at risk, according to new details released about Flamingo Land’s proposed holiday park.

Developers say they will plant trees and develop feeding stations to minimise impact on wildlife at the Balloch site.

But consultants suggest that there could still be a “significant” negative impact on the species.

The risks have been detailed in documents submitted to the national park by Flamingo Land Ltd and Scottish Enterprise who are applying for permission in principle.

The complex is expected to include 105 lodges, a 60-bed hotel, water park and forest adventure rides.

The applicants say the proposals are “tasteful tourism focused development appropriate to the setting in a national park and are not a theme park that would be incompatible with the location”.

But the extent of the potential damage to wildlife is revealed in an ecological assessment, submitted as part of an initial application for permission to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

It highlights “negative impacts of injury and fatality, disturbance and displacement to otter and red squirrel, resulting in significant effects at a local level”.

Developers propose planting more trees and developing feeding stations for wildlife but the report, by consultants Peter Brett, states these measures could still lead to damage to ancient woodland; water pollution; and habitat loss, death and injury for red squirrels and otters.

The positive impacts on wildlife, according to the report, are increased management of ancient woodland, shoreline habitat and water; more feeding provisions for red squirrels and pine martens; and more roosting and foraging resources for bats.

The impact of the resort on viewpoints across the national park are also being considered, including Ben Lomond Way, Loch Lomond Shores, the Maid of the Loch Slipway, Woodbank House and Old Luss Road.

Local people are split over the plans with a 30,000 petition against it continuing to gain signatures.

Another 50 objection letters had been submitted to the national park as the Lennox Herald went to press.

However, West Dunbartonshire Council leader Jonathan McColl has come out in support of it, saying its benefits are too significant to be overlooked.

Tonight (Tuesday) protesters will hold hands around Drumkinnon Woods in a demonstration against plans.

It has been enjoyed by locals for a long time. It’s a place for peace and quiet.”

In a letter of objection to park planners, Balloch resident Greig McKenzie wrote: “My objections are based on several issues. One of which is the increased level of traffic both locally and more importantly on the A82 which can already be heavily congested during peak times and weekends particularly during periods of good weather.

“I object to any development of the Drumkinnon Wood area on the basis of the effect any development would have on the natural flora and fauna found within what is an ancient, well established area of traditional woodland which I would expect an organisation such as Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park to protect.”

Director of sales for Flamingo Land, Andy Miller, told the Lennox Herald: “The three public consultation we held in the local community gave us a great insight into what the feelings were to early proposals.

“In terms of objections on the planning portal this is what the portal is set up for so it’s not a surprise that we have objections.

“A number of concerns are still and have always been around infrastructure.

“However I think people forget that this is only an application for planning permission in principle and not detail.

“What is being asked is, in principle if traffic, parking, drainage etc can be overcome, would the development be of benefit to the area and welcomed?

“After this, we would then need to get into the detail of what, where and how.”

It has also been revealed that the site is of significant archeological sensitivity with West of Scotland Archeological Services (WOSAS) warning that “buried remains” are a possibility.

The organisation, which has not taken a side in the growing debate, has recommended that a condition relating to the archaeological issue should be placed on any planning consent.

West of Scotland Green MSP Ross Greer, who has previously raised concerns, added: “Statements in the developers’ own impact assessment about potential loss of wildlife habitats are deeply worrying.

“It’s time to go back to the drawing board and come up with a plan that will showcase rather than damage the beauty of Loch Lomond, the local ancient woodland and the wildlife it supports.

“We need to boost local business and not add to serious traffic congestion.” Labour MSP Jackie Baillie added: “The consultation period is ongoing and I would encourage anyone who has concerns or views about the application to ensure that their voices are heard.”

Balloch and Haldane Community Council said they would not take a stance until a public meeting had been held on June 19 at the park headquarters.

Secretary Jim Biddulph said: “At the moment we are sitting on the fence. It is also worth considering that these are planning proposals in principle and we could be looking at a long time before anything definitive is actually decided by the national park.”

Members of the community council will hold a public meeting on June 19 at 6.45pm in Alexandria Parish Church

West Dunbartonshire Council is expected to discuss the plans at a public meeting on June 27 at 6pm in the new council offices in Dumbarton.